History People Culture

History

There are several mythological implications associated with Shekhawati. This place has its mention in the Ramayana and Mahabharata and the Pandavas are believed to have spent a year of their banishment here. The Shekhawat rule came to prominence with Rao Shekha Ji from Dhundhar establishing his own autonomous kingdom with its capital at Amarsar. Rao Raimal, Rao Suja and Rao Lunkaran were the successors who ruled over Amarsar. The chiefs of Shekhawat showed allegiance towards the Kachwaha Rajputs. Shekhawats were also acknowledged for their bravery and built many massive forts, castles, palaces and havelis. The present day Shekhawati is a key tourist spot frequented by a large number of tourists all the year round.

Festival

The Shekhawati Festival is held at the Shekhawati region, well-known for for its painted havelis, lavishly constructed mansions and patio, in Rajasthan. The festival is annually organized on 10th and 11th February. It is organized by the State Department of Tourism in association with District administrations of Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Churu. The festival aims to provide an extensive view of Shekhawati and its culture for the tourists.

The festival is organized at a number of places in Rajasthan, including Nawalgarh, Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Churu. On this occasion, a one-day tour of the Shekhawati region is organized that include camel & jeep safaris and farm visits. While enjoying the inspiring trip, the tourists get together with the hospitable inhabitants of the region and gain an essence of the flourishing tradition of Shekhawati. Besides this amazing tour, lots of other programmes are organized to entertain the guests, such as rural games, cultural programmes, haveli competitions and fireworks etc. Nawalgarh serves as the chief location for the festival and is easily accessible from the capital city of Jaipur.